A college physics course unleashed Dr. Patrick Lynch’s passion for science. He thought about becoming a scientist until he watched his grandparents navigate hospital care toward the ends of their lives, reinforcing for him how meaningful medicine could be, and switched to a career as a physician.

Patrick Lynch, M.D.

What this award means: I feel that this award recognizes my commitment to provide exceptional care to all of my patients by going beyond the knowledge found in a textbook and addressing each one’s individual values and concerns.

Mentor comment: Patrick is a cerebral, compassionate student who enjoys cultivating long-term relationships. During his clerkship, he viewed his patients holistically, caring for many with terminal illnesses. He treated all his patients with the utmost respect and made them feel at ease. – Reeni Abraham, M.D., Associate Professor of Internal Medicine

Background and family: I was born and raised in College Station, Texas, where my mother worked as a history professor. I grew up with an interest in reading, writing, and history, intent to study liberal arts in college. However, after my first college physics course, I discovered a passion for science and later developed my love for medicine.

What led to your career path: Initially, I planned to become a scientist, but after watching my grandparents navigate their final days through the hospital and hospice care, I realized how meaningful the practice of medicine could be. I switched careers and matriculated at UT Southwestern. I ultimately decided to pursue a career in internal medicine as it is the field that best enables me to connect with my patients and care for them during the most vulnerable periods of their lives.

College: At Cornell University, I majored in physics with a concentration in biochemistry. I worked as a tutor and teaching assistant for introductory physics, chemistry, and biology courses.

UTSW activities: I served as co-Director of DFW HepBFree (a hepatitis B and hepatitis C screening organization), as an officer for No One Dies Alone (a volunteer organization that holds vigils for those dying without family or friends at bedside), as a member of UT Southwestern’s student government, as a volunteer at the Monday Clinic for uninsured individuals, and as an occasional member of the UT Southwestern Heartstrings Orchestra.

Surprising fact: I am addicted to bubble tea! My favorite boba shop in Dallas is Fat Straws, and my favorite tea to drink is Thai Tea.

Ultimate career goal: During the first half of my career, I will strive to provide compassionate, personalized care to each and every patient that I see. However, as I learn more about health care delivery systems, I ultimately plan to become a physician leader who implements policies that improve the quality of care for my community with a focus on the underserved.

Future plans: I am excited to start my residency in internal medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, where I hope to learn how to better provide high-quality and cost-efficient care to patients with limited resources and poor health literacy.

About the award: The award is given annually to one or more graduating medical students who excel academically during clinical rotations and exhibit an interest in and compassion for patients.